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Magnetic phase transitions in Pr(1-x)Lu(x)Mn(2)Ge(2) compounds
J L Wang1, S J Campbell, A J Studer
1School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, The Australian Defence Force Academy, Canberra ACT 2600, Australia. Bragg Institute, ANSTO, Lucas Heights, NSW 2234, Australia. Institute for Superconductivity and Electronic Materials, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
Summary
Replacing Praseodymium (Pr) with Lutetium (Lu) in Pr(1-x)Lu(x)Mn(2)Ge(2) compounds modifies magnetic structures and transitions. This study reveals changes in magnetic ordering and phase transitions due to Lu substitution, impacting magnetic behavior.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Magnetism
Background:
- The magnetic properties of RMn2Ge2 compounds are sensitive to rare-earth element substitution.
- Understanding these substitutions is crucial for designing materials with tailored magnetic behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of substituting Praseodymium (Pr) with Lutetium (Lu) on the magnetic structures and phase transitions of Pr(1-x)Lu(x)Mn(2)Ge(2) compounds.
- To characterize the structural and magnetic modifications induced by Lu doping.
Main Methods:
- X-ray diffraction (XRD) for structural analysis.
- Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetization measurements for magnetic characterization.
- Neutron diffraction for detailed magnetic structure determination.
Main Results:
- Lutetium substitution leads to a decrease in lattice constants and unit cell volume.
- Multiple magnetic phase transitions were observed, linked to intralayer Mn-Mn separation distances.
- Re-entrant ferromagnetism was detected in Pr(0.6)Lu(0.4)Mn(2)Ge(2) below 31 K.
- The canted antiferromagnetic (AFmc) region contracts with increasing applied magnetic field.
Conclusions:
- Lutetium substitution significantly modifies the magnetic structures and ordering temperatures in Pr(1-x)Lu(x)Mn(2)Ge(2).
- The observed magnetic transitions are strongly correlated with structural changes induced by Lu doping.
- The findings provide insights into the relationship between crystal structure and magnetic properties in this class of materials.
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